Front spindles on the rear axle

[adamkw12]

I am looking for some advice and to see if this is even an option. My rear axle spindles are not in the best shape and I want to replace them. I was wondering if I could cut the old spindles off flush and use some front spindles and bolt them to the backing plate flanges. Any advice would be great, thanks.

[Cal_Gary]

There are tons of parts trucks owned by guys on this forum-I'd recommend a diff swap.
Gary

[Brett]

I think I understand what you're asking, and the idea sounds plausible. But, I agree with Gary. I think replacing the housing would be a better option. I've got a rear axle that I sold the diff and axle shafts out of already. If you were interested I would make you a deal on it.

Brett

[adamkw12]

The reason I don't want to use another rearend is because this one is a centered rearend and I would like to keep the housing. My only concern is if I bolt on spindles in the rear, will it be strong enough, or should it be better to have them welded on?

[MSeriesRebuild]

Not smart to go for either repair option you have asked about. Nothing wrong with using a centered housing, but a lot is wrong with doing what you are considering. The cheaper option that makes good sense is to find another centered housing and replace yours. There are also repair options for spindles that are very good, but it will cost you; how much depends on what may be the issue with yours, thus what it will take to correct what may be wrong. Top notch heavy truck shops will either offer this service in house or should know of someone who offers it that they use. Many folks are into these types of repairs as a business, many offer mobile service, so they would actually come to you and do the repair at your home or shop.

[outsider]

I have actually used a service like Charles is talking about for one of my semi trailers a couple of years ago. We had a bearing burn up and trash the spindle. I called them on the phone, told them what axle and bearings the trailer used and they came out to my shop a couple days later and cut the old spindle off and welded a new one on. $555.00 and the axle was ready to be reassembled the hub and put it back to work. Not cheap, but way cheaper than going the brand new axle route.

Steve